Dearborn Animal Shelter's Annual Black Tie Fundraiser to be a 'Pawsidential' Affair

The Friends For the Dearborn Animal Shelter announces that it will be going “paws-itively presidential” at the 12th annual Black Tie & Tails dinner and auction event on Friday, Oct. 26 from 7 p.m. until midnight at the historic Dearborn Inn.

A signature fundraiser for the organization, Black Tie is targeted to raise over $100,000 in needed funds to help care for homeless animals that come through the shelter’s doors.

Gearing up for a national election shortly after Black Tie & Tails, the theme is a playful twist on the presidential race. Instead of human candidates, the shelter will be featuring feline frontrunners and doggie delegates. In keeping with the theme, guests will have a chance to “vote” for “Mittens Romney” or “Bark Obama.”

As Friends Executive Director Elaine Greene explains, “The 4-legged bipartisan candidates truly take center stage. They will shake paws and cuddle with attendees, and be featured on the convention floor. Their single agenda: To find forever homes.”

One of last year’s adoptees from Black Tie will be showcased in 2012, serving as the event’s canine co-chair. Chester was adopted by Drs. Robert Sharon and Angela DeSantis, both Oakwood physicians. Since that time, he has become a certified therapy dog working with Dr. Sharon at the Oakwood Healthcare Center in Wyandotte.

The elegant evening is emceed this year by Fox 2 sports director Dan Miller, and is sponsored by MaryAnn Wright and Bob Sayles. Special guests include honorary co-chairs Congressman John and Mrs. Debbie Dingell.

Since its inception, Black Tie has raised over $1 million, benefitting more than 25,000 rescues. Leading up to the evening, a host of auction items can be previewed online. There are dinner excursions, getaways, sports packages, and more.

Tickets for Black Tie & Tails are $175 per person and are available online at www.DearbornAnimals.org, or by calling the shelter at 313-943-2697.